Phuentsholing is a border town in Southern Bhutan, near Jaigoan, West Bengal. It serves as one of the main gateways to the country. To enter into Bhutan, you will have to visit the Bhutan Immigration Office for processing your travel documents. It can sometimes be so tiring that you might want to spend the night in Phuentsholing. 

If you are spending some time in Phuentsholing, or residing in the border towns of Jaigaon or Hashimara, I suggest you visit Kharbandi Gompa.

About Kharbandi Gonpa

Kharbandi Gompa, also known as Rinchending Gompa, is located approximately 5 km away from Phuentsholing Town. It overlooks the Great Indian plains in the south and majestic mountains in the north.

It is a Buddhist monastery built under the supervision of the late Queen Mother Ashi Phuntsho Choden. Just next to the monastery stands her palace. These two buildings’ facades reflect Bhutanese architecture at its best in the foothills of the Great Himalayas.

The best time to visit this site is either early morning or in the evening. The view of the sunset from the monastery is breathtakingly beautiful.

A palace in Bhutan

1. Accessibility

The monastery is conveniently reachable from the main town or Jaigoan. If you take a local taxi to reach there, it would take 25-20 minutes depending on the traffic.

If you have a bike, you will enjoy the beautiful curvy roads under the shades of big trees along with it. 

2. Experience Bhutanese Architecture

The monastery’s façade gives an overview of Bhutanese architecture. It houses large stupas and wall paintings, which are integral parts of Bhutanese architecture.

As mentioned earlier, next to the monastery stands a majestic palace.

3. Bird's Eye View of Phuentsholing and Jaigoan

Hundreds of Indians and other tourists come to enjoy the panoramic views of Phuentsholing and Jaigoan.

India-Bhutan Border Town

4. Pristine Environment for Family Time

Just near the monastery’s entrance is a green and clean open-space best suited for family gatherings and photo shoots.

If you are coming with your spouse, you will probably be rooted to the spot for a long time just enjoying the fresh environment.